"Salmonella bacteria often contaminate adult chickens, ducks and other live poultry, so it goes without saying that their offspring often carry it, too,” says Emilio DeBess, DVM, Oregon Public Health veterinarian.

“What’s worse is that because of their size and cuteness, these birds often are picked by children, who will put them close to their faces and kiss them," DeBess says. "In most cases, children may not wash their hands after handling them.”

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Salmonella infections can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps and fever symptoms lasting three to seven days, DeBess said. Anyone with compromised immune systems, the very young and elderly people could become very ill and die of the infection.

“We don’t think they are appropriate Easter gifts," DeBess says, "especially for young children – those younger than 5 – who are particularly vulnerable to serious illness from Salmonella contamination because of their underdeveloped immunity.”

Many people purchasing baby poultry also don’t realize the responsibility involved with raising chicks and ducklings as the animals grow up. “These birds require space to roam and food to eat, and these factors can be expensive,” DeBess says. “As a result, they often are abandoned after they become adult chickens and ducks.”